The Sacred Role of Mothers in Ancient Egyptian Society: (Happy Mother’s day)

In honor of Mother’s Day, I would like to talk about what it was like in Ancient Egypt for mothers, and what their role in society was. Motherhood was closely tied to religion in ancient Egypt, as many goddesses were associated with fertility and childbirth.

Motherhood held an essential place in ancient Egyptian society and was considered a noble and well-regarded role. Women were valued for their ability to bear and raise children, and the concept of motherhood was closely tied to fertility, one of the major themes in ancient Egyptian religion. Even with the assistance of midwives and other medical professionals, at the time childbearing could be a dangerous and life-threatening event, especially for women with underlying health conditions or complications during pregnancy. It is estimated that maternal mortality rates in ancient Egypt were around 1% to 2%, which is relatively high compared to modern times.

It is believed that women in ancient Egypt used a plant called acacia to help with pain relief during childbirth. Acacia contains tannins, which have pain-relieving properties. Women may have chewed on acacia bark or made a tea from the leaves to help with pain relief, opium was also used. Opium was a famous drug in Egypt, Farming of poppies in Egypt developed during the Arab period (7th cen- tury), it was cultivated in Ancient Alexandria as well.

Motherhood was also closely tied to the worship of goddesses, particularly Isis, who was considered the mother of all gods and was associated with motherhood, fertility, and childbirth. Countless women prayed to the Goddess Isis for support in becoming pregnant and delivering healthy children.

Fathers were also revered and responsible for their children’s upbringing. Were the relationships that fathers had with their sons different, better, or closer than the ones they had with their daughters? Not at all! Just look at the many depictions of Pharaoh Akhenaten with his daughters, and you will know how loving and affectionate fatherhood could be in Ancient Egypt. Fathers played an important role in ancient Egyptian society, particularly in the upbringing and education of their children.

Despite the importance placed on motherhood, women in ancient Egypt had a range of roles and responsibilities beyond childbearing and rearing. Many women worked outside the home, particularly in the agricultural sector, and some held positions of authority and influence.

Overall, while motherhood could be dangerous, it was revealed and respected as it should be.